Canada Taking Action to Help Sikh and Hindu Minorities Facing Persecution in Afghanistan

Surrey, BC: Minister Ahmed Hussen has announced the Government of Canada is approving the private sponsorship of the Sikh and Hindu minority population in Afghanistan by the Manmeet Bhullar Foundation. Canada will welcome the approved individuals to Canada early next year.

File Photo of Late Canadian Sikh politician Manmeet Bhullar

The Sikh and Hindu community in Afghanistan, which now numbers less than 2,000 faces daily persecution and attacks for their religious beliefs. This past July, 19 members of this religious minority were killed in a suicide bombing, the Manmeet Bhullar Foundation said in a release issued on November 27.

Provinces with Sikh and Hindu Population in Afghanistan | Source: Manmeet Bhullar Foundation

“When any one religious community is targeted and attacked for their beliefs, we all have a responsibility to stand up and do everything in our power to protect that group and bring an end to persecution” said MP Sukh Dhaliwal.

Sukh Dhaliwal, MP [File Photo]

MP Dhaliwal added he is “thankful for the hard work of the late MLA, Manmeet Singh Bhullar, and proud that on the third anniversary of his passing we can make this announcement to welcome the most vulnerable to Canada. This is only possible because of his tireless work in raising awareness of this persecution, and Minister Ahmed Hussen who has worked with determination and diligence in reducing processing times that made this announcement possible.

“Canada is known around the world as a compassionate, tolerant, and equal nation and groups like the Manmeet Bhullar Foundation and actions like these strengthen our place in the world as a leader in Human Rights. Once again, I am proud of the work done by everyone who voiced their concern, and worked hard fora solution, I look forward to welcoming them to Canada early next year”